What happened
On 19 December 1999, a Luscombe 8E, registration G-BRRB, was returning to RAF Newton following a local flight. During the approach to Lambley airstrip, the pilot requested a surface wind report and was informed of a wind of 300° at 7 kt. Given the airstrip's 260° orientation, the pilot was aware that a northern crosswind could induce turbulence.
As the aircraft descended to approximately 100 feet above ground level, the pilot encountered turbulence and initiated a go-around by applying full power. During this maneuver, the aircraft began to roll to the left. Despite the use of appropriate aileron input, the roll could not be arrested. The aircraft side-slipped to the left, resulting in the left wingtip striking the ground, followed by the propeller and the nose. The aircraft then slewed 270° before coming to a halt. There were no injuries to the pilot, and the aircraft sustained significant damage to the landing gear, propeller, cowling, rear fuselage, and both wingtips.
The investigation
The investigation was based on the aircraft accident report submitted by the pilot. Investigators examined the sequence of events leading to the loss of control during the missed approach. The pilot's experience was noted, with over 19,000 total flying hours, though only 157 of those were on this specific type.
Findings
- The pilot attempted a go-around in the presence of a crosswind and potential turbulence.
- Insufficient aileron authority prevented the pilot from countering the left-hand roll.
- The roll was likely driven by a combination of the crosswind and a downdraught encountered during the application of full power.